Day 101 - Patna

Patna is the capital city of Bihar located at the southern bank of the river Ganga, Patna is the largest town of the state. The history of this city stretches beyond 2500 years back. The ancient name of this city was Pataliputra which remained as the capital of Magadha under multiple dynasties for about thousand years. There are other four rivers that join the Ganges in Patna. These are Ghaghara, Gandak, Punpun and Sone. Patna has one of the world’s longest bridges in the world, the Mahatma Gandhi Setu on the River Ganga.The history of Patna can be traced back to 493 BC, when a king of the Magadha empire, Ajathashatru, fortified the then called Pataligrama. His son, Udayi continued the dynasty and developed the village into a town and thus, Pataliputra was formed.Later, Pataliputra was ruled by many dynasties, the most important of which is the Mauryan empire, under which was developed. It was also the capital of the Magadha Empire under the Haryanka, Nanda, Gupta, Mauryan, Pala, Sunga and Suri dynasties.Later, Pataliputra was ruled by many dynasties, the most important of which is the Mauryan empire, under which was developed. It was also the capital of the Magadha Empire under the Haryanka, Nanda, Gupta, Mauryan, Pala, Sunga and Suri dynasties.Patna is known for its Buddhist remains and is also a sacred place for the Sikh Community, since many of the Sikh Gurus were born here.


How to reach here:

By Air: Patna has an international airport and is well connected from the major cities across the country.

By Rail: Patna Junction is a major railway station and is well connected from all the cities. Direct trains are available from Delhi (Rajdhani Exp), Kolkata (Poorva Express), Mumbai (Rjpb Cstm Sup E), Chennai (Pnbe Ers Expres) and Bangalore (Sanghmitra Exp).


Best time to visit: October to March.


Languages spoken: Bihari, Hindi.


Must eat: Khurchan, Ghugni, Pittha.


Famous Restaurants: 17 Degrees, Mamta, Bansi Vihar, Pind Balluchi, Mausam Munch.


Places you must visit:



Buddha Smriti Park  is located at the heart of the city it boasts of the innumerable heritage collections found in the region replete in glorious historical settings. Built by the British rulers in 1917 the grand building is a fine example of the Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The relic found in the excavation of the Vaishali stupa, believed to contain the Buddha’s last mortal remains is preserved in this museum. The most prized collection of the museum is the famous Dibarganj Yakshini discovered at the bank of Ganga in 1917. The beautiful highly polished stone sculpture is a marvelous specimen.





Kumhrar Park  is the site where some sandstone pillars were found as the only remains of the one of the ancient great capital city, Pataliputra. The large Ashokan pillars are the reminders of the glory of Mauryan dynasty and the capital of Magadha Empire, around 250 BCE. King of Magadha, Ajatashatru shifted his capital from Rajgriha to Pataliputra around 600 BCE. It continued to be the capital till about 600 CE.  Presently one pillar is kept in a small shed in the park that is designed as a public space for the citizens.







 Gol Ghar is a massive granary situated next to river Ganga. It was built by Captain John Garstin for British army in 1786 to take a precaution for the severe famine that occurred in 1770. The height of this gigantic granary is 105’ and the walls at the base measure about 3.6 m wide. There is no entry fee for this monument. he granary had been closed for public to enter inside the structure. There are two stairways with 141 steps winding around the dome form of the granary to reach at the top to enjoy the city view alongside the magnificent river Ganga. This is now made as a recreational space along with a garden.



Phulwari Khankaye Mujeebia  is an important Sufi pilgrimage with a long heritage.The many Sufi saints preached from this region including the well known Hazrat Pir Muzibullah Quadri . The Sangi Masjid, a red sandstone tomb built by the Mughal Emperor Humayun bears a rich heritage of the place. The organisation is popular for its contribution towards education which is a well-known ‘Madrassa’ offering support for poor students as well.






Patna Museum was built in 1917 during the British rule, this museum is constructed in Mughal and Rajput architectural style and is commonly called as Jadu Ghar. This museum houses several metal and stone sculptures that date back to the Gupta and Mauryan Eras.It is also home to the First World War cannon and a 16 m long fossilized tree, which is around 200 million years old and is considered as the longest fossilised tree of the world. The museum is also home to the paintings from the British Empire along with the painting related to the life of the first prime minister of India Dr Rajendra Prasad. The oldest museum of Patna showcases various sculptures and beautiful art work along with eccentric terracotta figures. Although the museum looks old and faded on the outside it still has a splendid collection of Buddhist sculptures, Jain images, Buddhist Bodhisattvas, and Chinese art. One of the major attractions of the museum is a sandstone piece of Yakshi or a female attendant, who is holding a flying whisk.

Maner Sharif is a medieval site and a notified area, which is located about 30 km towards the west of Patna city on the National highway 30. It is famous historic and spiritual site of Bihar and is home to two famous tombs, namely Makhdoom Yahya Maneri and Shah Daulat. Makhdoom Yahya Maneri is also called as the Bari Dargah, while Shah Daulat is also called as the Chhoti Dargah.This is the place where Makhdoom died in 1608, after which Ibrahim Khan who was his follower and governor of Bihar, built his mausoleum in 1616. The building of Maner Sharif has intricate scriptures on its dome from the holy book of Quran.

Gandhi Maidan, formerly known as Patna Lawns  is popular attraction in the region as it has been a witness to several Indian freedom movements, including the Champaran and the Quit India movement held during 1942. This ancient ground is located near the banks of Ganga River, towards the east of the Golghar Falls.This ground was considered as hotspot for freedom movement rallies and major activists from the Indian freedom struggle namely Mahatma Gandhi, Rajendra Prasad, Sardar Patel, Maulana Azad, Nehru and Indira Gandhi have made memorable speeches here. Presently, this ground is being utilised for several commercial purposes like private parties, mass prayers and trade fairs.



Mahatma Gandhi Setu is a bridge, which connects Patna with Hajipur city of Bihar over the River Ganga. Built by Gammon India Limited, this bridge’s length is 5450 m and comprises 48 pillars. This bridge is counted among the longest bridges of the world. It also connects southern Bihar to the northern Bihar.The bridge was inaugurated in May 1982 by Mrs. Indira Gandhi, who was the prime minister at the time. This bridge is supported by 40 piers and is constructed in such a way that it does not affect the navigation of ships
and big boats.







Srikrishna Science Center was constructed in 1978. This science gallery is named after the first chief minister of Bihar, Dr Sri Krishna Singh. Set-up with an aim of benefiting the public, this center was formed as a part of the National Council of Science Museums, which is a governing unit under the Ministry of Culture.The prime attractions of this science center are the Fun Science Gallery, Vishvaroopa, and Popular Science Gallery. Fun Science Gallery holds an exhibition of the various theories of physics and mathematics. The Popular Science Gallery is the section, where interactive exhibitions of science are held.Located on the first floor, gallery of the Vishvaroopa holds an exhibition, which comprises an interesting mixture of biodiversity, Indian philosophy and mythologies. This gallery also hosts shows and exhibitions on evolution, which portrays the story of evolution. Images and mirrors gallery, which is the new edition to the park, is under construction.This gallery will showcase various concepts of physics in the form of reflection, illusive images, 3D images, medical imaging, concept of colors, digital and virtual imaging.








Patna Planetarium is considered as one of the largest planetariums in Asia . Popularly known as Indira Gandhi Planetarium, this planetarium opened for the public on 1 April 1993.The idea of this planetarium was conceived by the chief minister of Bihar in 1989, Shree Satyendra Narayan Sinha. The completion of its construction took 4 years and was finally inaugurated by the then chief minister of Bihar, Shri Laloo Prasad on 21st March 1993. The planetarium hosts various exhibitions and shows in the context of astronomy.

Martyr's Memorial is a historical site, which is located right outside the Secretariat building in Patna. It is a life size stone statue of the seven brave students or martyrs, who gave their lives in order to ignite the Quit India movement in 1942. The foundation stone of the statues was kept by the first governor of Bihar, Shree Jairam Das Daulatram on 15th August 1947. The seven martyrs that are showcased in this monument are namely Umakant Prasad Sinha, Ramanand Singh, Satish Prasad Jha, Jagatpati Kumar, Devipada Choudhry, Rajendra Singh and Ramgovind Singh.

College of Arts & Crafts was set up at Govind Mitra Road, Patna on 25th January 1939, by Late Shri Radha Mohan Ji. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first member of the Management Committee of this college. Government of Bihar took charge of this college in the year 1949 and in the name of Government School of Arts & Crafts offered five year Diploma programs.

Takht Sri Patna Sahib, commonly known as Gurudwara Patna Sahib, is a gurudwara built in the fond memory of Guru Gobind Singh, who was born at this very place. Guru Gobind Singh was born on 22nd December, 1666 and was the tenth Guru of Sikhism. Situated at the banks of the holy Ganga River, Gurudwara Patna Sahib was constructed by the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh during his reign from 1780 to 1839.This place is considered as one of the only five sacred thrones or Takhts among Sikhs. Guru Tegh Bahadur stayed at this place along with his wife, after travelling from cities like Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Delhi, Agra, Etawah, Kanpur, Allahabad, Banaras, Sasaram and Gaya. When Guru Tegh Bahadur and his wife came to Patna, they stayed at Jaitamal's house.Later Ghanshyam, the great grandson of Adhraka, brought them to Salis Rai Johri's Sangat, which is now commonly called as Takht Sri Harmandirji or the birth place of Sri Guru Gobind Singh. The tenth Guru has also praised a lot about this place in his autobiography called Bachitra Natak.This gurudwara Patna Sahib is considered as the epicentre for Sikhism in eastern India. It is home to many of the belongings of the 10th Guru of Sikhism. Many of them include a cradle, also known as the Pangura, which has four gold plated stands and is said to be the sleeping cradle of the tenth Guru himself during his infancy. Further, there are four iron arrows, a sacred sword of the Guru, a pair of sandals kept in this temple.

Patan Devi Temple is a magnificent temple, located in the Chowk area of Patna. The temple comprises into two temples, Bari (big) Patan Devi Temple and Chhoti (small) Patan Devi Temple. It widely believed that the name of this district has been inspired by the name of the Patan Devi Temples.This temple is more popular in comparison to the Bari Patan Devi Temple, however over the years the latter has emerged as more famous among the two. The temple consists of various idols of Lord Ganesh, Surya and Lord Vishnu.Bari Patan Devi Temple is near the Ganga River and faces the northern side. The main attraction of the temple is that of the idols at the entrance of goddesses Mahakali, Maha Lakshmi, Maha Saraswati and Bhairav made in black stones. Various festivals or fairs are held around these temples during the time of Vijaydashmi.

Agam Kuan is known to be the oldest and the most important archaeological sites in Patna.Agam Kuan is known to be the oldest and the most important archaeological sites in Patna.Agam Kuan is approximately 105 ft deep and with a perimeter extending over 20 ft. It's upper half is encased with a 44 ft brick layer and secures it with wooden rings. The structure of the surface is constructed with eight arched windows. According to legends, Emperor Ashoka had this well built for the purpose of torturing people. Popular folklore also states that this was the well, where King Ashoka drowned his 99 brothers in order to get the throne of the Mauryan Empire.The well is also famous for other legends concerning a king named Chand, who threw Sudarshana, a Jain monk, into the well, who was later found floating on the surface, seated on a lotus. At present the well is considered as auspicious for many religious ceremonies like weddings. It is believed to have been bestowed with infinite powers especially among Hindus.

Jalan Museum is a private museum built at the foundations of Sher Shah's Fort and is popularly called as Qila House. This museum was constructed by Late Diwan Bahadur Radha Krishna. This museum also houses various antiques such as dinner service that once belonged to George III, Napoleon's bed, Chinese jade and Mughal silver filigree.

Mahavir Mandir is one of the most prominent and well-renowned temples in Bihar, which is enshrined with the deity of Lord Hanuman. The initiation of this temple is unknown, however according to historical facts, this temple is said to be established by Swami Balanand, who was a disciplinary of Ramanandi Sect during 1730 AD. This temple was discovered during the British rule.The temple comprises the brass shrines or Kalas, which can be seen on the roof. During 1983 and 1985, the temple was remodelled and many idols were installed such as Sankat Mochan Hanuman and Jagaddhatri. Other than Lord Hanuman, the temple also showcases the idols of Shiva family, Krishna Arjun, goddess Durga, Lord Ganesh, Lord Buddha, Satyanarian Bhagwan, Lord Ram and his wife Sita.Mahavir Mandir Trust, a trust established in the year 1987, manages many medical camps through which they provide free medicines and subsidised treatments to poor. These camps also give special treatments to kids, who at the age of twelve are suffering from cancer.This is the only temple of the country, where the donation made to the priest while performing ceremonies also goes to the temple's trust. It is definitely the first temple in the northern India to utilise its entire donation in religious projects or programs that involve helping and aiding the poor with medical as well as monetary facilities.

Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, one of the 16 largest zoos in India, was established in 1973.  This zoo is popularly known as Sanjay Gandhi Botanical and Zoological Garden or Patna Zoo. Spread across an area of 618966.69 sq. metres, this zoo comprises 800 animals of about 110 species. These animals are segregated into different houses according to their species, namely Machhali Ghar (fish aquarium), Saap Ghar (snake house) and more.Tourists can spot tigers, leopards, elephants, Himalayan black bears, jackals, black bucks, zebras and giraffes. Besides, Indian rhinoceros, pythons, monkeys white peacocks, emus, hippopotamus and crocodiles can also be found in the zoo.The zoo comprises a botanical garden, which houses more than 300 species of trees, shrubs and herbs. This garden also has a nursery for medical plants, an orchid house, a rose garden, a fern house, and a glass house. The zoo is a home to 300 species of trees, 35 species of fish and 5 species of snakes.

Padri Ki Haveli, also known as St Mary's Church, was built in 1713, when Roman Catholics entered Bihar district. Therefore, this church is considered as the oldest church in Bihar. This church was re-designed by a Venetian architect Tirreto in 1772.During the mutiny against Britishers in 1857, the church was destroyed over a dispute with British traders by Nawab Mir Kasim, who was then the ruler of Bengal. It is said that amidst this loot the pivotal documents and records, which were kept inside the premises of the church were burnt.The church has a beautifully shaped bell, which has inscriptions on it. This church was the home to Mother Teresa, while she completed learning nursing here.

Mangal Talab of Patna city is popular for Khanqah Emadia and is a section of Khanqah Mujeebia. The annual six day festival of Urs takes place here and thousands of people from different places like Pakistan and Bangladesh gather to pay homage to the Sufi Mangal Talab of Patna city is popular for Khanqah Emadia and is a section of Khanqah Mujeebia. The annual six day festival of Urs takes place here and thousands of people from different places like Pakistan and Bangladesh gather to pay homage to the Sufi saint.

Patthar Ki Masjid, commonly known as Saif Khan's Mosque, is located on the banks of river Ganga in Patna. This mosque is locally known by various names like Chimmi Ghat Mosque and Sangi Masjid. The son of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Parvez Shah constructed this mosque during the year 1621, while he was governor.The name Patthar Ki Masjid is derived by the architecture of the mosque, which is made up of stone. Constructed adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, this mosque is considered as a religious landmark of the city.

Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library, which was built in 1900, is situated along the banks of Ganga River. This library is home to a distinct collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, paintings from Mughal and Rajput Eras. The library is designated as 'Manuscript Conservation Centre' (MCC) under the National Mission for Manuscripts.It is a historical storehouse of about 21000 original and unique manuscripts and 2.5 lakh printed books. The library was actually opened for public use in the year 1891 by Bihar Khan Bahadur Khuda Bakhsh, however at that time it had only 4000 manuscripts out which 1400 were inherited from his father, Maulvi Mohammed Bakhsh.

Bihar Police Museum is situated near the Patna Golf Club, towards the north of Jawaharlal Nehru Marg. This museum houses a unique collection of ancient arms, ammunition and uniforms, which are often used by modern day police officers.

The Harmandirji shrine is considered to be the holiest of all shrines for Sikhs. It is dedicated to Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last Guru of the Sikhs and houses many of his scriptures and personal belongings. Maharaja Ranjit Singh built this shrine in Old Patna at Chowk Area. 

Meetan Ghat is mostly known for Khanqah Munimia, which is a popular site for Sufis of Patna city. Mughal Prince Azin constructed a beautiful double storied mosque at Meetan Ghat. This mosque was named as Azimabad, during the reign of Mughal king, Aurangzeb. Presently, this place is considered as one of the prime location for celebrating the five day festival of Eid and Urs.

Old Opium Warehouse, located on the banks of Ganga River at Gulzarbagh, was constructed by the East India Company. Today, this warehouse is used by the government as a printing press. Tourist can see the three buildings, from where the opium was once shipped to Kolkata.

Rajendra Smriti Sangrahalaya was established in the memory of the first president of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad. Before his presidency from 1952 to 1962, Dr Rajendra Prasad used to live and work in Bihar Vidyapeeth, which is now home to Rajendra Smriti Sangrahalaya.During May 1962, the former president, after completing his presidency, returned to Patna and started living in the campus of Bihar Vidyapeeth. He occupied the same poorly constructed house, in which he used to reside prior to his presidency. In the same year, Loknayak Jayprakash Narayan helped in constructing a small house in a corner of Bihar Vidyapeeth's mango-grove.Dr Rajendra Prasad, however died on 28th February 1963 and this place was constructed in order to showcase the contributions made by him and was originally called as Museum - Rajendra Smriti Sangrahalaya.

Karpoori Thakur Museum, located on Deshratna Marg in Patna, was originally the home of former Chief Minister of Bihar, Late Jananayak Karpoori Thakur. Bihar government has declared his official residence as the Karpoori Thakur Museum, which houses many artefacts belonging to the ex-chief minister, including his daily use articles. Few of them are clothes, documents letters, diaries, writings and more.

St Stephen's Church is a popular church located in Danapur military quarters of Patna. The most important feature of this church is its wooden Baptismal font. Every section of this church bears the cross symbol. This church, which was constructed by Italian priests during 1854, houses arts works of brass flower pots and candelabra, which are about 137 year old. During the year 1934, the walls of St Stephen's Church was gravely damaged.

Begu Hajjam's Mosque stands on the eastern side of Khajekalan Ghat. The history of this mosque can be taken back to the year 1489, when the founder of Hussaini dynasty, Alauddin Hussain Shah ordered its construction. However, a barber called Begu Hajjam, remodelled this mosque during the year 1646 and renamed it after his name.